Recently, according to SeeNews, Slovenia’s national transmission and distribution system operator ELES plans to invest USD 5.9 billion over the next ten years to upgrade and expand the country’s power infrastructure. This initiative aims to meet growing energy demand and facilitate the integration of renewable energy.

ELES stated that, between 2025 and 2034, it will allocate USD 4.5 billion to the distribution network and USD 1.4 billion to transmission network construction.

In terms of investment timing, USD 2.06 billion will be spent from 2025 to 2029—an average of USD 412 million per year—while annual investment will rise to USD 487 million from 2030 onward.

By 2034, ELES has ambitious construction plans, including nearly 4,000 new substations, five medium‑voltage distribution substations, and over 15,000 km of new lines. It will also refurbish more than 20,000 km of overhead and underground lines, along with 4,417 substations and 58 distribution stations.

In terms of equipment upgrades and new builds, the investment covers installing or replacing seven large power transformers, upgrading 19 regional substations, the construction of seven new 110/20 kV substations, and extensive connection infrastructure for solar and wind power facilities. Additionally, ELES will upgrade 610 km of high‑voltage lines and install 167 km of new fiber‑optic links.

Regarding financing, most funds will come from EU grants, loans, and depreciation. However, ELES noted that starting in 2027, distribution network tariffs may increase significantly—from a 26.5% rise to 58.6%—to meet these investment requirements.

This large‑scale investment will enhance Slovenia’s power system reliability and stability, further renewable energy integration and absorption, and lay a solid foundation for the country’s energy transition and sustainable development.